The Right to Say ‘No’

In the review of the play “Geniuses” on March 3, the reviewer (Philip Brandes) states the play (at Third Stage, Burbank) indulges in exploiting the character of Skye, whom I play, by parading her around in various states of undress. Most of my theater work has been in the classics, and whether playing Marina in “Pericles” or Skye in “Geniuses,” the theme of violence to women is something I am familiar with portraying on the stage. The virginal Marina is kidnaped, nearly raped and forced to work in a brothel. Skye, however, is a Playmate by profession. States of undress are, literally, a day at the office for Skye (not to mention taking into account the tropical conditions the play is set in).

But Skye, as every woman, virgin or Playmate, has the right to, says “No” loudly and clearly to the advances of Eugene. The fact that she is beaten in a violent scene is not diffused because she is dressed provocatively. To say a scantily clad character who is beaten is sending a mixed message is to perpetuate the misguided notion that a woman “asked for it” because she wasn’t dressed in a less seductive way. Every woman has the right to dress in whatever manner she pleases and still say no without suffering violent consequences.

DEIRDRE IMERSHEIN

West Hollywood